British Cycling has for the first time tipped over 100,000 members, with numbers having doubled since the London 2012 Olympic Games, while members have bloomed to this landmark figure from just 15,000 in 2005.
World time trial champion, Bradley Wiggins, said: “I have been a member of British Cycling since I was a teenager. It is incredible how cycling has evolved as a sport in the years since I saw Chris Boardman win gold in Barcelona in 1992. Back in those days it felt as if I was the only person on a bike. Today cycling is mainstream and it’s great to see”.
Female British Cycling members have also increased dramatically and now stand at 15,500, having kept pace with male membership to double since the home Olympics.
British National Road Race Champion, Laura Trott, said: “It is remarkable to see so many people now riding bikes. With significant investment in creating more welcoming roads and junctions, we really could transform Brits into a nation of cyclists.”
British Cycling’s president Bob Howden, said: “In reaching 100,000 members, we have once again highlighted our ability to achieve ambitious targets. With our members’ backing, we will continue to strive for further elite success, more people cycling more often and greater diversity across the sport as we continue to make cycling appealing to all people.”
The success of sportives and other non-competitive events is one factor in the increase, with 300,000 entrants taking place in over 4,000 events each year, while British Cycling’s partnership with Sky has led to 360,000 people participating in the 50 traffic-free Sky Ride events around British city centres.
British Cycling’s chief executive, Ian Drake, said: “We are supporting our membership activities at all levels – from the Great Britain Cycling Team and our talent pathways to entry level racing, young people’s coaching, club racing and our recreational cycling programmes which are helping people to start and stay cycling with British Cycling. However you ride a bike, British Cycling can help you get the most out of it.”
Check out British Cycling's infographic on the news below: